Ippolita Rostagno’s beautiful bangles and sparkling rings have graced the famous wrists and fingers of Halle Berry, Reese Witherspoon, Carrie Underwood and Kate Hudson. The Italian-born designer’s collections are sold at the most coveted department stores in the world from Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue and Harrod’s to Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s. Earlier this month, the designer appeared at Neiman Marcus in Boca Raton to show her latest collection and meet with fans of her line.

“When it comes to our names we try to evoke fun and memorable experiences in daily life, touching all five senses – Wonderland, Gelato, Lollipop and Stella.”

2. Have you had any muses in your life?

“Absolutely! Growing up I was inspired by Janis Joplin and Carmen Miranda – both such strong personalities with distinctive points of view. And I love their headdresses – they were inspiration for the feathers I wear in my hair almost every day.”

3. Which material-- gold, silver or rose has been most popular lately?

“All of them. But I’m starting to see more and more women purchase gold for themselves – they see that it can be worn everyday and not just saved for a special occasion.”

4. How does it feel to have celebrities wearing your designs and have you gotten any feedback from them on your pieces?

“The best part of seeing celebrities in my jewelry is that they don’t want to take it off. They’ll wear the same stack of bangles on the red carpet and to the grocery store.”

5. How would you describe signature Ippolita style?

“Cool. Simple. Sexy.”

6. What is your favorite memory of growing up in Italy?

“Kids, don’t try this at home, but I learned to drive when I was about 11 years old. I have memories of barely being able to see over the steering wheel of our family’s VW Beetle while racing down curvy one-lane roads with my sister and friends hanging off the sides.”